Why choose a mobile home?
Mobile homes are an economical housing option, some people particularly those of retirement age, choose to move into mobile accommodation, often selling traditional property to do so. They are also often a cheaper option for both owning and renting.
What should I consider when looking for a mobile home?
- when you buy or rent a mobile home you need to think about:
- what the home itself is like?
- what the site is like that the home is located on?
Does the home and site comply with all the council’s licensing conditions? (These should be displayed on the site in a readily accessible position).
You should ask to see a copy of the site or tenancy agreement that you will be required to sign.
Can I put a mobile home on my own land?
Even if you own land to put a mobile home on, you will need planning permission and a site licence, which you can obtain by writing to the council.
Are there safety standards for mobile homes?
Yes. Park homes should be built to a British Standard (BS3632). Various schemes exist, such as the Gold Shield Ten Year Warranty, to ensure that park homes comply with these standards. Make sure that any mobile home you buy is covered by a warranty.
A list of approved caravan, motor home and caravan leisure home models can be found at the National Caravan Council (NCC) website. The NCC has checked these models and approved that they comply with UK legislation and safety regulations. They will carry an NCC approved sticker.
What are my rights if I buy or rent a mobile home?
Unfortunately, tenants or owners of mobile homes do not have as many rights as owners or tenants of “bricks and mortar” homes. This is because different laws apply to mobile homes.
How do I make a complaint?
If you have a complaint concerning a mobile home park you should try to contact the site owner or manager in the first place to give them the chance to remedy the situation. If the site owner or manager is reluctant or slow to address the problem, you should then contact the Housing Standards section of the council who may be able to take further action.
If your park is a member of the British Holiday and Home Parks Association (BH&HPA) or the National Park Homes Council (NPHC), you can take your complaint to these organisations and they will do their best to resolve the dispute.